As we age, memory loss can become a challenge. Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can take its toll and impact both the individual and the rest of their family. However, not everyone must suffer. With sufficient care and support, it is possible for older adults diagnosed with memory loss ailments to still live happy, fulfilling, and well-rounded lives. Memory care prioritizes the needs and wants of your loved one with the main aim of helping them with day-to-day tasks such as bathing, getting dressed, etc as well as keeping them stimulated to combat further memory loss. In this article, we will elaborate on how memory care in Mooresville, NC can support caregivers and their families.
Professional Staff
The majority of memory care programs come equipped with professional and well-trained staff who are adept at caring for individuals suffering from memory loss. The staff are ready to deal with difficult behavior such as wandering and violent actions. The staff are also friendly and eager to befriend your loved ones with the intent to make them feel more comfortable and more at home all while engaging in stimulating conversation that keeps their mind sharp and active.
Safe Living Environment
Memory care programs and communities also provide a safe and secure living environment for your loved ones. Individuals grappling with memory loss often suffer from wandering, whereby they lose track of familiar places. This can be stressful for caregivers, as well as dangerous and possibly life-threatening for the older adult themselves. As such, memory care communities typically have password-encrypted exit areas. All entrances and exits are also monitored by staff so your loved one’s whereabouts will always be supervised thereby minimizing the chances of your loved one getting lost.
Enrichment Activities and Programs
Yet another added service that memory care communities provide is enrichment programs. These are programs that are specifically tailored to keep your loves one’s minds engaged and active. For example, art classes require them to pay attention to details and focus which is useful for those suffering from dementia. Music therapy also seeks to help evoke memories and feelings from the past. It is also a calming and serene experience for the older adults involved which helps to actively relieve tension and decrease stress levels. In addition, most memory care communities also host events that are opportunities for your loved one to socialize with other older folk. These include interest clubs and groups such as gardening or book clubs which allow them to interact with others thereby preventing feelings of loneliness and isolation. As such, your loved one can form close connections and bonds with others by establishing a community of like-minded individuals. Social interaction has also been shown to be beneficial to those suffering from memory loss as it promotes recall and active thinking.
Health and Fitness Programs
Finally, one of the highlights of memory care programs is the exercise activities hosted by the community. These include outdoor walks and meditation which allow your loved ones to enjoy the soothing atmosphere of nature. There are also stretching exercises that keep them physically active and alert. As a whole, exercise is a mood booster that can help those suffering from memory loss who may be moody or temperamental.
If you as a caregiver are struggling to care for your loved one, take the step to reach out for help and consider moving them into a memory care facility for their own benefit.